Ghosts of the Battlefield Collection

The M1 Garand Ping: Lifesaving Innovation or Fatal Flaw?

Did the M1 Garand’s iconic “ping” reveal a soldier was out of ammo, putting lives at risk? Some say yes—others call it a battlefield myth. This debate echoes through history, tied to one of WWII’s most legendary weapons.

From the Collection

“Midgies: The Complete Miniature Mobile Army” — A Toy Soldier’s War on the Home Front

This WWII-era Midgies toy set offered kids a “Complete Miniature Mobile Army,” blending play with patriotism. It reflects how toys gave families purpose, pride, and a way to support the war effort—while companies capitalized on that spirit.

From the Collection

"My Thrift Store Treasure: How a Vintage Cookie Jar Connects the Past, Food, and Memory"

A chance find at a thrift store—a vintage Toll House cookie jar—unlocks a story of history, tradition, and the powerful connections food creates.

From the Collection

Doughnut Dollies Distinct Horizon Blue Uniform "From the Trenches of WW1 to the Jungles of Vietnam"

The simplicity and functionality of the attire helped the Doughnut Dollies navigate both the physical demands of their work and the expectations placed upon them as representatives of the Red Cross.

From the Collection

The Story of Capt. Earle A. Powers and Capt. John Bowen

The skies above Euclid, West Virginia, were shrouded in the heavy, blinding snowfall of a winter storm. It was in these perilous conditions that Capt. Early A. Powers and Capt. John Bowen took to the air in a UC-78.

From the Collection

Uniform of Captain (Then Commander) Norman R Berree an Ace with 9 Kills

Engaging in fierce aerial combat, he was credited with destroying nine Japanese aircraft. His most notable achievement came during the Marianas “Turkey Shoot” on June 19, 1944, where he downed three enemy planes in a single flight.

From the Collection

The USMC M-422A1 Mighty Mite

The newest acquisition of our museum for restoration is a rare M-422A1 Mighty Mite that we all have nicknamed Mighty Mouse (or just Mouse) as when it arrived from the junkyard in which it was found it had several passengers.